Watching Party for the National Team at the Central Java Governor's Office: Roar of Supporters and Ahmad Luthfi's "People's House" Message

The courtyard of the Central Java Governor's Office turned into a sea of people as thousands of Semarang residents joined a watch party (nobar) for the national team's opening match against Singapore in the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026, Friday (25/9/2026). The roars echoed, almost matching the atmosphere of Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium (SUGBK), the venue of the match.

From the first half, the Ultras Garuda Semarang supporters' group led the singing and chants, creating an unending roar. Euphoria erupted in the 13th minute when Ragnar Oratmangoen found the Singapore net from a Like Vickery cross. The lead doubled in the 73rd minute through an Ole Romeny penalty, sealing a 2-0 score for Indonesia. The match was broadcast live by SCTV, Indosiar, and Vidio.

Amid the crowd, Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi arrived at the start of the second half. He greeted the spectators and stressed that the governor's office is not merely a bureaucratic center but a public space open to anyone. "This is the governor's office, the governor's house is the people's house, so anyone may come and watch to give motivation that this is the togetherness of Central Java Province," he said.

Luthfi's statement implied a broader political message: football as a unifying tool amid an increasingly polarized society. By opening the governor's office courtyard for the watch party, the provincial government sought to draw closer to the public while nurturing a collective spirit. The event also served as a gathering for residents from various backgrounds.

One resident of Candisari, Taufik, said he was entertained by the event. He hoped watch parties could be held regularly whenever the national team plays. "This watch party is very entertaining because watch parties are rare in Semarang. If it could be held every time the national team plays, we could gather and support the team together," he said. Taufik was also optimistic that Indonesia can go far in this inaugural tournament and boost its FIFA ranking.

The watch party phenomenon at the governor's office reflects how football remains a social magnet capable of uniting various elements. In many regions, local governments often use national team matches to show concern and build closeness with the public. However, the challenge ahead is maintaining consistency and ensuring public facilities remain representative.

With the win over Singapore, the Indonesian national team has opened a big opportunity to go far in the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026. The next match will be the real test. Will the euphoria in regions like Semarang continue and become positive energy for the Garuda squad? Time will tell, but one thing is certain: support from the people's house has been lit.